FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PORT ORCHARD, WA — The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners has announced upcoming public hearings for the county's 2025 budget. These sessions will provide an opportunity for the public to learn about the budget review process and understand the financial priorities for the coming year.
The 2025 budget hearings will be open for public attendance. The Board of Commissioners invites all interested residents to watch and listen to these important discussions about the county's financial future.
"Public awareness is crucial as we work to create a balanced budget that addresses the needs of our community," said Kris Carlson, budget manager. "We encourage all residents to watch these hearings and organize their thoughts on county priorities. The preliminary budget will be ready for public comment on Dec. 2 at 5 p.m."
Hearing Schedule and Access
The budget hearings are scheduled for Sept. 23, 25, and 26. Members of the public can attend in person or via Zoom. Links to these meetings can be found in the budget schedule.
Balanced Budget Approach
As with all county budgets, the 2025 fiscal plan must be balanced. The Board of Commissioners and county department heads will work collaboratively to ensure that essential services are maintained while addressing any financial challenges the county may face.
Long-Term Financial Planning
In addition to the 2025 budget, the county has developed a six-year forecast to guide long-term fiscal planning. This forecast helps identify potential challenges and opportunities, allowing the county to make informed decisions about resource allocation and service delivery.
"The six-year forecast is a crucial tool that helps us anticipate future needs and challenges," said Katie Walters, chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. "It allows us to take a proactive approach to financial management and ensures the long-term fiscal health of our county.
Key Budget Priorities
Based on the six-year forecast and community input, some key priorities for the 2025 budget include:
- Maintaining essential services while adapting to changing economic conditions
- Investing in infrastructure improvements and maintenance
- Supporting public health and safety initiatives
- Promoting economic development and job creation
- Enhancing environmental sustainability efforts
Timeline for Budget Adoption
Following the public hearings, budget deliberations will begin Sept. 30, with an additional deliberation session set for Oct. 14. The final budget presentation will occur Oct. 23.
Access to Budget Information
For more information about the Kitsap County budget process, supporting documents, the deliberation schedule, or other budget-related resources, visit the Department of Administrative Services website.
About Kitsap County
Located in Washington, Kitsap County is home to over 270,000 residents across 566 square miles, making it the seventh-largest county in the state. Bordered by the Hood Canal and Puget Sound, Kitsap offers residents, businesses, and visitors a stunning natural beauty and a unique blend of urban amenities and rural charm. The county includes the cities of Bremerton, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Bainbridge Island, as well as many unincorporated communities.
Kitsap County is led by a three-member Board of Commissioners that is committed to providing high-quality services and amenities that enhance the quality of life for all residents while fostering economic growth, environmental conservation, and sustainable development.
For more information about Kitsap County services and initiatives, visit www.kitsapcounty.gov or follow us on social media @KitsapWa.
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Links in this document
Budget schedule: www.kitsap.gov/das/Documents/Budget%20Review%20Schedule.pdf
Department of Administrative Services website: www.kitsap.gov/das/Pages/bgt.aspx
Kitsap County: www.kitsapcounty.gov
@KitsapWA: www.facebook.com/KitsapWa
Website: www.kitsap.gov
Sign up for our updates: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/WAKITSAP/subscriber/new
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